Richard J. McRell

He is preceded in death by his wife of nearly 40 years, Betty Ann (McMahon) McRell, who died in 2000.

Mr. McRell is survived by his children and their spouses, Richard J. McRell Jr. and Lisa, Kelly A. McRell-LaBrack and Kenneth, Louis G. "Sam" McRell and Megan, all of Clinton, John J. McRell of Sterling, and David Stockwell and Kerry of Clinton; two siblings and their spouses, Louis R. McRell and Eileen of Clinton and Nancy Davidian and Edward of Northboro; eight grandchildren, his companion, Sheila Sablock of Clinton; several nieces, nephews and many friends.

He was born in Clinton to the late Louis and Anna (Sonia) McRell. He attended local schools and enlisted to serve in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Mr. McRell returned home and began his lifelong career of service to the Town of Clinton as a firefighter with the Clinton Fire Department. Upon retirement, he successfully owned and operated McRell Rubbish Removal and Trucking in Clinton for many years.

He volunteered time and efforts to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Jimmy Fund and St. Jude Children's Hospital. He was a communicant at St. Benedict Abbey in Still River and held membership with the Clinton Elks.

Funeral services will to be held on Wednesday, Dec. 18, from the Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton, with a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m., in St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St., Clinton. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Calling hours will be held in the funeral home from 4 to 7 p.m., on Tuesday, Dec. 17. Contributions may be made in memory of Mr. McRell to Clinton Hospital Foundation, 201 Highland St., Clinton, MA 01510. Online condolences may be placed at www.philbincomeaufh.com.

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